There is an asteroid named Apophis. It is named after an ancient Egyptian god. This asteroid does not pose a threat to Earth, but Earth can change it.
In 2029, Apophis will fly close to Earth. Scientists believe that this close pass will change its surface. Ronald Ballouz, a scientist at Johns Hopkins University, studied this. He thinks this can explain why some asteroids look younger than expected.
Apophis is about 335 meters long. When it was discovered in 2004, scientists worried it might hit Earth. But now, they know it will pass safely. In 2029, Apophis will be less than 32,000 kilometers away—about 20,000 miles.
As it passes, its surface might shake. This shaking could change how it looks over time. We are excited to see Apophis as it comes close. It will be bright enough to see without a telescope.
The research results are in The Planetary Science Journal and available on arXiv.
Vocabulary List:
- Asteroid /ˈæstəˌrɔɪd/ (noun): A small rocky body orbiting the sun mainly found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
- Surface /ˈsɜːrfɪs/ (noun): The outermost layer or boundary of an object.
- Change /ʧeɪndʒ/ (verb): To make something different from what it is or from what it would be if left alone.
- Pass /pæs/ (verb): To move past or go by something.
- Shake /ʃeɪk/ (verb): To move or cause to move back and forth or up and down with quick movements.
- Bright /braɪt/ (adjective): Emitting or reflecting much light; vivid or colorful.
How much do you know?
What is the name of the asteroid mentioned in the text?
Where did scientists discover Apophis?
Who studied the potential surface changes of Apophis during its close pass in 2029?
How long is Apophis estimated to be?
Where will Apophis be in 2029 in relation to Earth?
Where are the research results about Apophis published?
Apophis poses a threat to Earth.
Scientists initially believed Apophis might hit Earth.
Apophis will be visible without a telescope in 2029.
The close pass of Apophis in 2029 will not impact its surface.
The surface shaking of Apophis could change its appearance over time.
Ronald Ballouz is affiliated with Harvard University.
Apophis will pass Earth at a distance of less than kilometers in 2029.
The asteroid Apophis was discovered in the year .
The research on Apophis is available on .
Ronald Ballouz is a scientist at Johns Hopkins University and studied the potential surface changes of Apophis during its close pass in .
Apophis is named after an ancient Egyptian .
The estimated length of asteroid Apophis is about 335 .